In the latest update from Microsoft on November 21, 2025, it was announced that Windows 11 will start preloading File Explorer in the background to enhance its launch performance. Microsoft emphasized that this feature should not be noticeable, except for the fact that File Explorer should open faster when needed. The functionality can also be disabled if users prefer.

Other changes in the update also included enhancements to the Office applications and a cleanup of the context menu in File Explorer.

While users often find File Explorer lacking in efficient thumbnail loading for image folders, this new development might serve as a prompt to consider third-party file managers, which generally offer better performance and additional features.

Alternatives like Files, which supports tabs and includes advanced capabilities, are already available and might fulfill users’ needs more effectively than the default Windows option.